Determining the Frequency, Factors and Bacteriological Profile of Surgical Site Infection in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital of Western Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) account for nearly 20% to 25% of all Health care associated
infections (HCAIs) worldwide. SSI rates are reported to range from 2.5% to 41.9% resulting in high
morbidity and mortality. Settings and Design: A prospective study was carried out in a tertiary care teaching
hospital of Western Uttar Pradesh to determine the frequency, factors and bacteriological profile of Surgical
site Infections. Materials and Method: Patients, of all age group, gender and diagnosed as a case of SSI as
per CDC clinical criteria were included. The demographic detail, diagnostic criteria, associated risk factors
were noted. Culture and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern was determined. Laboratory and clinical data
were analysed. Observations & Results: Significant determinants of SSIs were; male population, young
and middle age group, hot and humid climate, type II diabetes, prolonged duration of surgery and certain
surgical procedures such as lower segment caesarean section, cholecystectomy, laparotomy etc.The rate
of SSI was 2.78% and culture positivity rate was (55.04 %). There was predominance of Gram negative
bacteria (76.73%). Coagulase Negative Staphylococci (72.22%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (35.48 %)
were the predominant bacteria isolated. The clinical isolates showed high level of resistance to various
antimicrobial agents.
Conclusions: Knowledge about the factors responsible and the bacteriological profile of SSI will guide the
clinicians in choosing the appropriate treatment options which will ultimately reduce the morbidity, cost and
lead to better clinical outcome.